On 25 May 2011 one exotic fruit fly specimen was detected in a Methyl Eugenol baited fruit fly trap in the Weipe area in the Limpopo province, close to the Zimbabwe border. Subsequently, the NPPO of South Africa initiated a delimiting survey in accordance with the South African Bactrocera invadens Action Plan. On 15 June 2011, another specimen was collected in a separate Methyl Eugenol baited trap, within 3 km from the first detection site.
The fruit fly specimens were identified as Bactrocera invadens by the nominated local fruit fly expert and reported to Directorate Plant Health, Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in accordance with the relevant legislation and national Action Plan. Subsequently this identification has been confirmed by an internationally recognised fruit fly taxonomist.
A risk assessment was conducted and phytosanitary actions were implemented on 6 July 2011 to control the movement of fruit from the area under delimitation. Eradication was initiated on 7 July 2011. It includes the application of weekly protein bait sprays and the deployment of male annihilation blocks in the quarantine area.